A pair of local Catholic school teachers are receiving a big award from the Diocese of Buffalo.

Batavia residents John and Margaret Volpe, teachers at St. Joseph’s School on Summit Street, have been named the 2011 recipients of the “Sister Lucille Socciarelli - Father John Sturm Making A Difference Award” for Catholic educators in Western New York. The award was established by the late Tim Russert, a Buffalo native and newsman who credited his Catholic education for his success in life.

The award is normally given to only one teacher – the Volpe’s will be the first couple to receive the award.

John Volpe is the 8th-grade teacher at St. Joes. His wife Margaret teaches 7th-grade. Margaret has been in Catholic education for over 40 years.

Check back later today for updated information as WBTA's Geoff Redick will interview the Volpe's in their classroom at St. Joseph's School.